'Not guilty' verdict in Kate Steinle murder trial sparks reaction at Pier 14

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Kate Steinle was shot and killed at San Francisco's Pier 14 in July 2015 while walking with her father.

RELATED: Kate Steinle suspect found not guilty, acquitted of murder and manslaughter

People at Pier 14 on the day the verdict was released were stunned.

RELATED: Steinle family: 'We're shocked, we're saddened and shocked'

"I was really surprised and just shocked as well because someone died, it might have been an accident but a life was lost," said Sara Jay, a San Francisco resident.

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO: Man accused in San Francisco Pier 14 shooting admits to shooting

"I don't know that a guilty verdict would have helped them that much but I know that this hurts I'm pretty sure," said Mary Bond, a San Francisco resident.

VIDEO: How the killing of Kate Steinle launched a battle over sanctuary cities

At Pier 14 a bench in tribute to Kate Steinle has a plaque that says: "Whatever's good for your soul, do that." Those are the words Kate Steinle posted to her Facebook page the day before her death.

TIMELINE: How the Kate Steinle case unfolded

The trial begins in the case that ignited a national debate on sanctuary cities and illegal immigration.

Click here to look back at the events of the Kate Steinle murder trial.